Articulating levers for fluid sensor assembly cap

ABSTRACT

A fluid sensor assembly is provided. The fluid sensor assembly includes a base and a cap. The base is configured to receive a fluid sensor, the base forming a plurality of receiving apertures positioned about a perimeter of the base. The cap is configured to fit on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between the cap and the base, the cap including a plurality of articulating levers, each articulating lever of the plurality of articulating levers being configured to rotate about a central axis and including a latching feature configured to be inserted into a receiving aperture of the plurality of receiving apertures when the cap is fitted on the base and to lock the cap to the base upon rotation of the articulating levers.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to fluid sensor probes and moreparticularly to improved holder assemblies for fluid sensor probes formonitoring fluid stored in physically proximal storage containers.

BACKGROUND

Tanker trailers are towed by trucks and store fluids (e.g., gasoline) inmultiple compartments that are generally filled from the bottom. Forsafety reasons, overfill sensors or probes are placed in eachcompartment to detect potential overfills and provide a signalindicative of the fluid level in a given compartment. The signalsprovided by the overfill sensors are monitored by a separate monitoringdevice to identify imminent overfills and to prevent their occurrenceby, for example, shutting off a fluid filling system.

The overfill sensors are wired to the monitoring device by a backbonecable loom. A conventional backbone cable loom 100 is illustrated inFIG. 1. The backbone cable loom 100 includes a monitor connection 102,main cables 106, overmolded junctions 108, sensor cables 110, and sensorconnections 104. The monitor connection 102 couples the monitoringdevice to overfill sensors via the main cables 106, the overmoldedjunction 108, the sensor cables 110, and the sensor connections 104. Forexample, the monitor connection 102 can include one or more strippedwires configured to be terminated at the monitoring device and wired toone or more input terminals or wires at the monitoring device. Theovermolded junctions 108 each contain a unique set of wire junctionsthat make connections between the main cables 106 and each sensor cable110 for each particular sensor connection 104. The particularconfiguration of the wire junctions in an overmolded junction 108 variesbased on, for example, the type of overfill sensor being used and thelocation of the overfill sensor in the tanker trailer (e.g., compartment#1 as opposed to compartment #3). These wire junctions are overmolded toprotect the wire junctions from the external environment. The length ofany of the main cables 106 and sensor cables 110 in the backbone cableloom 100 varies significantly with the particular size of the tankertrailer, the number of compartments in the tanker trailer, and the shapeof the tanker trailer.

To operably connect the individual fluid sensors, the sensor connections104 are connected to a fluid sensor assembly mounted on a portion of afluid compartment. For examples, each sensor connection 104 can includeone or more stripped wires configured to be terminated within a sensorholder housing and wired to one or more input terminals or wires of thefluid sensor assembly. The fluid sensor assembles are configured suchthat a fluid sensor contained within the fluid sensor assembly ispositioned to detect a fluid level of the fluid compartment. However,access to a fluid compartment is typically provided via a manhole lid,or “man-lid,” in the compartment. An individual man-lid is limited insize (e.g., 12-18 inches in diameter), and can include multiplecomponents such as additional sensors, compartment access hatches orvisual inspection points, gauges, and other similar components.

SUMMARY

In at least one example, a fluid sensor assembly is provided. The fluidsensor assembly includes a base and a cap. The base is configured toreceive a fluid sensor, the base forming a plurality of receivingapertures positioned about a perimeter of the base. The cap isconfigured to fit on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between thecap and the base, the cap including a plurality of articulating levers,each articulating lever of the plurality of articulating levers beingconfigured to rotate about a central axis and including a latchingfeature configured to be inserted into a receiving aperture of theplurality of receiving apertures when the cap is fitted on the base andto lock the cap to the base upon rotation of the articulating levers.

Implementations of the fluid sensor assembly can include one or more ofthe following features.

In the fluid sensor assembly, each of the articulating levers canfurther include a pivot point, a bottom portion configured to remainparallel to the central axis, and a top portion configured to pivotabout the pivot point to a position perpendicular to the central axis.In certain examples of the assembly, the top portion includes acontoured shape configured to mimic at least a portion of a shape of thecap.

In the fluid sensor assembly, the cap can further include one or moretoolless wire connectors configured to provide an electrical connectionto the fluid sensor.

In the fluid sensor assembly, each of the plurality of receivingapertures can include a slot. In certain examples of the assembly, eachof the latching features can include a pin extending from oppositessides of the articulating lever, the pin sized to fit into the slot whenthe cap is fitted to the base and to lock into the slot upon rotation ofthe articulating levers.

In the fluid sensor assembly, the assembly can further include a flangeconfigured to be mounted to a fluid container. In some examples, thebase can be configured to mount to the flange.

In the fluid sensor assembly, the fluid sensor can be a fluid overfillsensor.

In another example, a cap for covering a fluid sensor assembly isprovided. The cap includes a cap body and a plurality of articulatinglevers. The cap body is configured to fit against a sensor assembly baseand form a fluid-tight seal between the cap and the sensor assemblybase. Each of the plurality of articulating levers can be configured torotate about a central axis and can include a latching featureconfigured to be inserted into one of a plurality of receiving apertureson the sensor assembly base when the cap is fitted on the sensorassembly base and to lock the cap to the sensor assembly base uponrotation of the articulating levers.

Implementations of the cap for covering a fluid sensor assembly caninclude one or more of the following features.

In the cap, each of the articulating levers can further include a pivotpoint, a bottom portion configured to remain parallel to the centralaxis, and a top portion configured to pivot about the pivot point to aposition perpendicular to the central axis. In certain examples of thecap, the top portion can include a contoured shape configured to mimicat least a portion of a shape of the cap.

In some examples, the cap can further include one or more toolless wireconnectors configured to provide an electrical connection to a fluidsensor housed within the fluid sensor assembly.

In the cap, each of the latching features can include a pin extendingfrom opposites sides of the articulating lever, the pin sized to fitinto a receiving aperture when the cap is fitted to the sensor assemblybase and to lock into the receiving aperture upon rotation of thearticulating levers.

In another example, a fluid sensor assembly for measuring a fluid levelin a fluid storage container is provided. The fluid sensor assemblyincludes a flange configured to mount to the fluid storage container, afluid overfill sensor, a base, and a cap. The base can be configured tomount to the flange and receive the fluid overfill sensor, the baseforming a plurality of receiving apertures positioned about a perimeterof the base. The cap can be configured to fit on the base and form afluid-tight seal between the cap and the base, the cap including aplurality of articulating levers, each articulating lever of theplurality of articulating levers being configured to rotate about acentral axis and including a latching feature configured to be insertedinto a receiving aperture of the plurality of receiving apertures whenthe cap is fitted on the base and to lock the cap to the base uponrotation of the articulating levers.

Implementations of the fluid sensor assembly for measuring a fluid levelin a fluid storage container can include one or more of the followingfeatures.

In the fluid sensor assembly, each of the articulating levers furthercan further include a pivot point, a bottom portion configured to remainparallel to the central axis, and a top portion configured to pivotabout the pivot point to a position perpendicular to the central axis.In certain examples of the fluid sensor assembly, the top portion caninclude a contoured shape configured to mimic at least a portion of ashape of the cap.

In the fluid sensor assembly, the cap can further include one or moretoolless wire connectors configured to provide an electrical connectionto the fluid overfill sensor.

In the fluid sensor assembly, each of the plurality of receivingapertures can include a slot. In certain examples of the fluid sensorassembly, each of the latching features can include a pin extending fromopposites sides of the articulating lever, the pin sized to fit into theslot when the cap is fitted to the base and to lock into the slot uponrotation of the articulating levers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects of at least one example are discussed below withreference to the accompanying figures, which are not intended to bedrawn to scale. The figures are included to provide an illustration anda further understanding of the various aspects and examples and areincorporated in and constitute a part of this specification but are notintended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The drawings, togetherwith the remainder of the specification, serve to explain principles andoperations of the described and claimed aspects and examples. Forpurposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every figure.

FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional backbone cable loom.

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate example tanker trailers, in accordance withexamples of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an example fluid sensor assembly, inaccordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a sample mounting flange, in accordance with examplesof the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a sequence of positions assumed by levers duringa process of locking a cap to a base in a fluid sensor assembly, inaccordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a process for mounting andassembling a fluid sensor assembly such as that illustrated in FIGS. 3Aand 3B, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A illustrates an exploded view of a rotatable base/flangeassembly, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of a rotatable base/flangeassembly, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a fluid sensor assembly including a rotatablebase/flange assembly as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, in accordance withexamples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a process for mounting andassembling a fluid sensor assembly such as that illustrated in FIG. 8,in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 depicts an illustration of a dual-sensor fluid sensor assembly,in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a front view of a holder component including twosensor probes, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a flow diagram depicting a process for mounting andassembling a dual-sensor fluid sensor assembly, in accordance withexamples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a sample wiring diagram for connecting a controldevice and multiple fluid sensors in a dual-sensor fluid sensorassembly, in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following examples describe sensor assemblies and associated systemsfor fluid sensors (e.g., fluid level probes) that are interoperable withvarious tanker trailer configurations and that are easy to install andmaintain. For instance, some examples disclosed herein manifest anappreciation that any given tanker trailer manufacturer may producehundreds of different tanker trailer configurations to meet the needs oftheir customers.

In some examples as described herein, space around a sensor assembly,when installed, may be limited or access to the sensor assembly may bereduced. In such an example, modifications to traditional sensorassembly designs as taught herein can be used. In certainimplementations, a cap of the sensor assembly can be modified such thatcap locking members such as pivoting levers are redesigned to articulatein multiple directions, thereby reducing the amount of space requiredaround the sensor assembly for attachment and detachment of the cap. Insome examples, the sensor assembly can be configured such that at leasta portion of the sensor assembly rotates after installation, therebyproviding for customizable positioning of wiring ports to betteraccommodate wire routing between sensor assemblies. Additionally,depending upon the intended use of the fluid container, a two-probesensor assembly can be used as described herein.

Various examples disclosed herein include wiring interfaces andassociated systems for fluid sensors on tanker trailers. FIG. 2Aillustrates an example tanker trailer 200A suitable for transportingfluids including, for example, gasoline and other petroleum products. Asshown in FIG. 2A, the tanker trailer 200A includes an overfill sensorassembly 202, a retained product sensor assembly 204, a monitor 206, anda set of compartments 208, 210, 212, and 214. Each compartment of theset of compartments 208, 210, 212, and 214 is constructed to storefluid. Each of these compartments 208, 210, 212, and 214 can include anoverfill sensor assembly, such as the overfill sensor assembly 202, anda retained product sensor assembly, such as the retained product sensorassembly 204. The overfill sensor assembly 202 provides a signalindicative of whether a compartment is filled with fluid, and theretained product sensor assembly 204 provides a signal indicative ofwhether the compartment is empty. The overfill sensor assembly 202and/or the retained product sensor assembly 204 can be in communicationwith the monitor 206 (e.g., via electrical wires). The monitor 206processes the signals received from the overfill sensor assembliesand/or the signals received from the retained product sensor assembliesto variously detect potential compartment overfills and emptycompartments. It is appreciated that other tanker trailer configurationsmay be employed. For example, the tanker trailer may omit retainedproduct sensor assembly 204 and/or monitor 206 as illustrated by tankertrailer 200B in FIG. 2B. In cases where the monitor 206 is not mountedon the tanker trailer, the tanker trailer 200B includes a socket 207that is connected to the overfill sensor assembly 202 in each of thecompartments 208, 210, 212, and 214. The socket 207 is configured toconnect, via the cable 210, to an off-board monitor 206 that is, forexample, mounted on a loading rack.

Articulating Levers

As noted above, depending upon the design and number of componentsincluded on a tanker trailer or other similar fluid storage container,the space around a component such as a fluid sensor assembly (e.g.,overfill sensor assembly 202 as described above) can be limited. Forexample, a single man-lid can include multiple components such as avisual inspection cover, venting components, a tank access cover, a tanktemperature probe, a tank pressure probe, a fluid sensor assembly suchas an overfill sensor assembly, and other similar components. In such anexample, space around each individual component can be limited andaccess to any specific component may be restricted.

To access the sensors and fluid probes contained within the fluid sensorassembly, the cap of the sensor assembly may need to be removed.However, in order to maintain a secure connection and protect the fluidsensors and probes contained within the fluid sensor assembly, the capmay require a robust fastening system that is not easy to remove orrequires space around the cap to manipulate. As noted above, the fluidsensor assembly may be positioned on a man-lid with numerous othercomponents, further complicating access to and removal of the fluidsensor assembly cap.

As described herein, a fluid sensor assembly can include a baseconfigured to receive a fluid sensor, the base forming a plurality ofreceiving apertures positioned about a perimeter of the base and a capconfigured to fit on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between thecap and the base. The cap can include a plurality of articulating leversthat are each configured to rotate about a corresponding, respectivecentral axis. Each of the articulating levers can have a latchingfeature configured to be inserted into one of the plurality of receivingapertures when the cap is fitted on the base and to lock the cap to thebase upon rotation of the articulating levers. Thus, as describedherein, by including articulating levers that rotate to lock the cap tothe base, the amount of space around the fluid sensor assembly that isrequired for locking/unlocking and removing the cap is reduced. Such afluid sensor assembly with a cap having articulating levers is describedin greater detail in the following description of FIGS. 3-6.

FIG. 3A illustrates a fluid sensor assembly 300 configured to house afluid sensor such as a fluid overfill sensor as described above. Thesensor assembly 300 can include a cap 302 that is configured toremovably attach to a base 304. The base 304 can be mounted or otherwiseattached to a flange 306. The flange 306 can be mounted to a fluidcontainer and be positioned to surround an opening in the fluidcontainer, thereby providing access to the interior of the fluidcontainer. Additionally, once assembled, the cap 302, base 304, andflange 306 are configured to seal the fluid container such that anyfluid and vapors from the fluid are contained as well. For example, uponassembly the fluid sensor assembly can have an ingress protection ratingof IP65 as defined by international standard EN 60529. Each of cap 302,base 304, and flange 306 are described in additional detail below.

FIG. 3B illustrates an exploded view of the fluid sensor assembly 300with cap 302 detached from the base 304. As shown in FIG. 3B, the cap302 can include a set of articulating levers 308. It should be notedthat two articulating levers 308 are shown by way of example and,depending upon the size and shape of cap 302, different numbers ofarticulating levers can be used.

As further shown in FIG. 3B, each of articulating levers 308 can includea top portion 310 that is configured to be manipulated by a person suchas a technician accessing the fluid sensor assembly 300. In certainimplementations, the top portion 310 can be sized and/or shaped toreceive a finger or multiple fingers of the person accessing the fluidsensor assembly 300 to better facilitate manipulation of thearticulating lever 308. As shown in FIG. 3A, the top portion 310 can beshaped such that at least a portion of the articulating lever contoursto mimic at least a portion of an exterior shape of the cap 302. Thecontour of the top portion 310 can be seen in, for example, FIG. 5C asdescribed below.

Referring again to FIG. 3B, each articulating lever 308 can furtherinclude a bottom portion 312. The bottom portion 312 can be coupled tothe top portion 310 at a pivot point 314. For example, the pivot point314 can include a pin that connects the top portion 310 and the bottomportion 312 such that the top portion can pivot from a vertical to ahorizontal position about the pivot point. The bottom portion 312 canalso include one or more latching features 316. For example, as shown inFIG. 3B, the latching feature 316 can include a pin that extends fromopposite sides of the bottom portion 312. However, it should be notedthat a pin is shown by way of example only and additional latchingfeatures 316 can be used. For example, the latching features 316 caninclude a threaded portion, a hook-shaped protrusion, an L-shaped orC-shaped protrusion, and other similar latch shapes and fasteners.

As defined herein and explained in greater detail below, duringmanipulation and locking of the cap 302, the articulating levers 308 canbe rotated about a central axis of rotation, thereby locking the cap tothe base 304. The pivot point 314 can be configured to provide amovement point for the top portion 310 relative to the bottom portion312 such that the top portion can pivot about the pivot point to aposition perpendicular to the central axis of rotation. The movement ofthe articulating levers 308, and the individual components of thearticulating levers, is described in greater detail below in thediscussion of FIGS. 5A-5C.

As further shown in FIG. 3B, the cap 302 can further include one or morewire connectors 318 that are configured to provide an externalelectrical connection to a fluid sensor housed within the fluid sensorassembly 300. For example, the cap 302 can include a modular connectorthat is configured to releasably attach to the wiring of the fluidsensor. A cable having, for example, a matching toolless connector suchas a bayonet connector can be attached to the connectors 318, therebyestablishing a connection to the fluid sensor housed within the fluidsensor assembly 300. Examples of such toolless connectors can be foundin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/573,007, filed Nov. 9, 2017 andentitled “Wiring Interface for Fluid Sensors,” the content of which ishereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Referring again to FIG. 3B, the base 304 can form a set of receivingapertures 320 that are positioned about the perimeter of the base andconfigured to receive the latching features 316 of the articulatinglevers 308. Similar to the articulating levers 308, two receivingapertures 320 are shown by way of example only and, depending on thesize and shape of the base 304, additional numbers of receivingapertures can be included. Each of the receiving apertures 320 can beshaped to receive at least a portion of the latching features 316. Forinstance, if the latching feature 316 is shaped like a pin as shown inFIG. 3B, the receiving aperture 320 can be shaped like a slot configuredto receive the pin. However, upon rotation of the articulating lever 308as described herein, the latching feature 316 can rotate in thereceiving aperture 320, thereby locking the cap 302 to the base 304.

As further shown in FIG. 3B, the base 304 can further include a fluidsensor mounting bracket 322 that is configured to secure, for example, acylindrical fluid level probe. A sensor lock 324 can be included toreleasably tighten the mounting bracket 322, thereby securing the fluidsensor in the fluid sensor assembly 300. It should be noted, however,that the shape of the mounting bracket 322 and the type of sensor lock324 as shown in FIG. 3B are provided by way of example only. Dependingupon the type and shape of fluid sensor used, the shape of the mountingbracket 322 can be altered to properly fit and secure the fluid sensor.Similarly, the sensor lock 324 can include a lever that is configured topivot between a locked position and an unlocked position as shown inFIG. 3B. However, depending upon the design of the mounting bracket 322,the sensor lock 324 can include additional locking or tighteningimplements such as a thumb screw, a hex head screw, a Phillips headscrew, a straight head screw, a square head screw, and other similartightening implements can be used.

FIG. 4 illustrates multiple views of flange 306 as described above andincluded in FIGS. 3A and 3B. More specifically, the left image shows atop-down view of the flange 306 and the right view shows an isometricview of the flange.

As shown in FIG. 4, the flange 306 can form a set of mounting holes 402that are positioned about the perimeter of the flange 306. Each of themounting holes 402 can be sized to receive a particular fastener. Forexample, each of mounting holes 402 can be about 0.27 inches in diameterand configured to receive a 0.25-inch fastener such as a stainless-steelbolt. However, it should be noted that these sizes are provided by wayof example only and can be modified depending upon the size of theflange 306.

As further shown in FIG. 4, the flange 306 can also form a centralopening 404 that is configured to be positioned over and around anopening in the fluid container, thereby providing access to the interiorof the fluid container. For example, the overall outer diameter of theflange 306 can be about 4.5 inches. In such an example, the centralopening 404 can have a diameter of about 2.0 inches. However, it shouldbe noted that these diameters are provided by way of example only. Insome examples, the flange 306 can have an outer diameter of about 3.5 toabout 6.0 inches. In such examples, the central opening 404 can have adiameter of about 1.5 to about 4.0 inches.

As noted above, the fluid sensor assembly 300 can be configured to mounton an external fuel container such as a fuel tanker trailer and, assuch, can be designed to be exposed to harsh conditions such as rain,snow, wind, sun, heat, and other types of weather. In addition, thecomponents of the fluid sensor assembly 300 can be designed to withstandpotential corrosion caused by the fluid in the container as well as anyfumes or vapors that the fluid gives off. For example, if the fluid isgasoline, the components of the fluid sensor assembly 300 can bemanufactured from materials that can withstand exposure to gasoline. Incertain implementations, the base 304 and the flange 306 can bemanufactured from a non-corrosive metal such as stainless-steel oranother similar metal. The cap 302 can be manufactured from a lightermaterial such as a high-density polyethylene or another similar plastic.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a set of views (top, middle, and bottom) showingvarious positions of the articulating levers 308 during attachment ofthe cap 302 to the base 304 in one particular example. In FIGS. 5A-5C,the top view shows an isometric view, the middle view shows a frontview, and the bottom view shows a side view. However, it should be notedthat, in each individual figure, the components shown in the fluidsensor assembly are in the same position relative to one another. Forexample, the position of the articulating levers 308 are identical ineach of the top, middle, and bottom views of each individual FIGS. 5A,5B, and 5C.

As shown in FIG. 5A, the cap 302 has been positioned on the base 304 andeach of the top portions 310 of the articulating levers 308 are orientedin a parallel position relative to the front side of the fluid sensorassembly 300. Each of the latching features 316, illustrated in thisexample as pins, is similarly oriented in a parallel position relativeto the front side of the fluid sensor assembly 300. In certainimplementations, each of the pins can be oriented in a differentposition such as in a perpendicular position relative to the front sideof the fluid sensor assembly 300. Additionally, each of the latchingfeatures 316 is positioned within a receiving aperture 320. However,with this position of the articulating arms 308, the cap 302 can belifted from the base 304 without any manipulation.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the cap 302 remains positioned on the base 304 andeach of the articulating levers 308 have been rotated 90 degrees about acentral axis of rotation 505. As such, each of the top portions 310 ofthe articulating levers 308 are oriented in a perpendicular positionrelative to the front side of the fluid sensor assembly 300. Each of thelatching features 316, illustrated in this example as pins, aresimilarly oriented in a perpendicular position relative to the frontside of the fluid sensor assembly 300. Additionally, each of thelatching features 316 is now locked within a receiving aperture 320.

It should be noted that, in this example, each of the articulatinglevers 308 are configured to rotate in opposite directions (e.g., one ofthe articulating arms is configured to rotate in a clockwise directionand one of the articulating arms is configured to rotate in acounter-clockwise direction). However, this is shown by way of exampleonly and, in certain implementations, the articulating levers can beconfigured to rotate in the same direction.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the cap 302 remains locked on the base 304. Each ofthe top portions 310 of the articulating levers 308 have been pivotedabout pivot point 314 and are oriented toward the back of the cap 302.After pivoting, each of the top portions 310 are positionedperpendicular to the central axis of rotation 505. When positioned asshown in FIG. 5C, the chance of accidentally manipulating thearticulating levers 308 is reduced or eliminated completely.Additionally, when positioned as shown in FIG. 5C, the contour of thetop portions 310 can be configured to mimic the overall shape of the cap302, thereby eliminating any component of the fluid sensor assembly 300protruding beyond the diameter of the flange 306, resulting in a compactdesign that does not interfere with any adjacent components that may bemounted, for example, on the same man-lid of a tanker trailer.

To remove the cap 302 from the base 304, a reverse process as that shownin FIGS. 5A-5C can be used. For example, the top portions 310 of thearticulating levers 308 can be pivoting about the pivot point 314 backinto a vertical position as shown in FIG. 5B. The articulating levers308 can then be rotated 90 degrees back to a position where the topportions 310 of the articulating levers are oriented in a parallelposition to the front side of the fluid sensor assembly, therebyunlocking the latching features 316 from the receiving apertures 320.Once unlocked, the cap 302 can be removed from the body 304.

FIG. 6 illustrates a sample process 600 for mounting and assembling afluid sensor assembly (e.g., fluid sensor assembly 300) as describedabove in the discussion of FIGS. 3A-5C. The process 600 can includeinitially mounting 602 the flange to a fluid container such as a fluidcompartment in a tanker trailer. Mounting 602 the flange can includecutting a hole into the container or simply mounting the flange around ahole already cut or otherwise inserted into the container. The base canthen be attached 604 to the flange using, for example, bolts, screws, orother similar fasteners. In some examples, the base can be attached tothe flange using a tension or snap fit, secured using a tensioning ring,or another similar fastening technique. In other examples, the base caninclude a threaded portion that is configured to screw or otherwise turninto the flange, thereby attaching the base to the flange.

Process 600 can further include inserting 606 and securing the fluidsensor or probe into the base. As noted above, the base can include amounting bracket configured to secure the fluid sensor as well as asensor lock for tightening the sensor into the mounting bracket. Thefluid sensor can be wired 608 to the cap. As noted above, the sensor caninclude a modular connector configured to attach to a mating modularconnector on the cap. The cap can then be positioned 610 and thearticulating levers can be rotated 612 to lock the cap to the baseusing, for example, a similar process as that shown in FIGS. 5A-5C anddescribed above.

It should be noted that the process 600 as shown in FIG. 6 is providedby way of example only. In actual implementation, several of the processsteps can be combined and/or performed in an alternate order. Similarly,additional process steps can be included. For example, in certainimplementations, the base and the flange can be manufactured as a singlecomponent. In such an example, attaching 604 the base to the flange canbe performed during manufacturing of the flange/base component. Incertain implementations, inserting 606 the sensor into the base can beperformed prior to attaching 604 the base to the flange.

Swivel Flange

As noted above, depending upon the design and number of componentsincluded on a tanker trailer or other similar fluid storage container,the space around a component such as a fluid sensor assembly can belimited. This is especially important and potentially troublesome whenrunning wires between fluid sensors assemblies. For example, as notedabove, a single man-lid can include multiple components. In such anexample, space around each individual component can be limited andpathways for routing wires to a sensor such as a fluid sensor containedwithin a fluid sensor assembly as described herein can be difficult toaccess or follow depending upon the mounting position and orientation ofthe fluid sensor assembly once mounted.

As described herein, a fluid sensor assembly can include a flangeconfigured to mount to a fluid container and a base configured toreceive a fluid sensor, the base rotatably mounted to the flange andconfigured to rotate about the flange. The base can further form aplurality of receiving apertures positioned about a perimeter of thebase as described above, and the fluid sensor assembly can include a capconfigured to lock on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between thecap and the base such as cap 302 described above. However, by includinga base that is rotatably mounted to the flange and configured to rotate,in some examples, 360 degrees can provide added flexibility wheninstalling a fluid sensor assembly as the base can be rotated to providebetter and easier access to the connectors on the cap (e.g., toollessconnectors 320 as described above). Such a rotatable base/flangeassembly is described in greater detail in the following description ofFIGS. 7-9.

FIG. 7A illustrates an exploded view of a sample rotating or swivelingbase/flange assembly 700 as described herein. As shown in FIG. 7A, abase 702 can be rotatably attached to a flange 704. As described herein,flange 704 can be similar to flange 306 as described above, for example,in FIG. 4. The flange 704 can form a central opening 706 that isconfigured to receive an extended portion or stem 708 included on base702. A swivel seal 710 can be positioned between the stem 708 and thecentral opening 706 to form a fluid-tight seal between the base 702 andthe flange 704 while permitting rotation of the base about the flange.

In certain implementation, the swivel seal 710 is an O-ring made from aflexible material such as fluorosilicone. Such a seal can provide abarrier against fumes, liquids, and vapors from the fluid containerwhile permitting rotation of the base about the flange. In otherimplementations, the swivel seal 710 can be made from other chemicallycompatible materials that permit rotation of the base 702 such aspolymers similar to fluorosilicone, Teflon, and other similar materials.The swivel seal 710 can also be manufactured to satisfy any requirementsregulated by, for example, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).For example, in a rollover situation, the U.S. DOT requires that anyfluid container access points maintain a fluid seal up to a pressure ofabout 38 psi. As such, the swivel seal 710 can be manufactured tosatisfy or exceed this requirement. For example, the swivel seal 710 canbe manufactured and tested to withstand a pressure of about 80 psi in arollover situation. In other examples, the swivel seal 710 can bemanufactured to a different size/thickness or from a different materialto withstand a pressure of about 60-100 psi.

Referring again to FIG. 7A, the base/flange assembly 700 can include aretaining ring 712 that is configured to fit within a receiving groove714 on stem 708 once inserted into central opening 706, thereby lockingthe base 702 and the flange 704 together. The retaining ring 712 can beconfigured to exert a pressure on the groove 714, thereby maintaining aforce on the swivel seal 710 and providing the vapor lock between thebase 702 and the flange 704. The base/flange assembly 700 can furtherinclude a probe seal 716 configured to provide an effective seal arounda fluid sensor or probe once inserted into the base as described above.The probe seal 716 can be manufactured from a similar material as theswivel seal 710 as described above.

In certain implementations, the retaining ring 712 can be manufacturedfrom a corrosion-resistance material such as stainless steel. Theretaining ring 712 can be sized so as to fit tightly within the groove714 to prevent separation of the base 702 from the flange 704 duringoperation of the base/flange assembly 700. For example, the retainingring 712 can fit in the groove 714 such that the retaining ring contactsthe groove about the entire inner circumference of the retaining ring,thereby eliminating any movement or rotation of the retaining ring whenfitted into the groove.

In certain implementations, the base/flange assembly 700 can includeadditional components. For example, as shown in FIG. 7B, the base/flangeassembly 700 can include a locking mechanism 730. The locking mechanism730 can be configured to provide a locking feature to prevent furtherrotation of the base 702 about the flange 704. In certainimplementations, the locking mechanism 730 can include a toollesslocking mechanism such as a thumb screw or a butterfly/wing nut. Inother implementations, the locking mechanism 730 can include a tooledlocking mechanism such as a screw that requires a driver for tighteningor bolt.

FIG. 8 illustrates a fluid sensor assembly 800 similar to fluid sensorassembly 300 as described above. Cap 302 as described above can bepositioned onto the base/flange assembly 700 and locked into position onbase 702 as described above. However, it should be noted that fluidsensor assembly 800 is shown in FIG. 8 with cap 302 by way of exampleonly. In other examples, the fluid sensor assembly 800 can include a capthat does not include the articulating levers as described herein. Forexample, the fluid sensor assembly 800 can include a cap that isscrewed, bolted, or otherwise similarly attached to the base/flangeassembly 700.

As described herein, the fluid sensor assembly 800 can be configured tomount on an external fuel container such as a fuel tanker trailer and,as such, can be designed to be exposed to harsh conditions such as rain,snow, wind, sun, heat, and other types of weather. In addition, thecomponents of the fluid sensor assembly 800 can be designed to withstandpotential corrosion caused by the fluid in the container as well as anyfumes or vapors that the fluid gives off. For example, if the fluid isgasoline, the components of the fluid sensor assembly 800 can bemanufactured from materials that can withstand exposure to the fluid. Incertain implementations, the base 702 and the flange 704, and thecomponents contained therein except as stated otherwise above, can bemanufactured from a non-corrosive metal such as stainless-steel oranother similar metal.

FIG. 9 illustrates a sample process 900 for mounting and assembling afluid sensor assembly (e.g., fluid sensor assembly 800 including arotatable base/flange assembly) as described above. The process 900 caninclude initially mounting 902 the base/flange assembly to a fluidcontainer such as a fluid compartment in a tanker trailer. Mounting 902the base/flange assembly can include cutting a hole into the containeror simply mounting the flange around a hole already cut or otherwiseinserted into the container.

Process 900 can further include inserting 904 and securing the fluidsensor or probe into the base. As noted above, a fluid sensor base caninclude a mounting bracket configured to secure the fluid sensor as wellas a sensor lock for tightening the sensor into the mounting bracket.The fluid sensor can be wired 906 to the cap. As noted above, the sensorcan include a modular connector configured to attach to a mating modularconnector on the cap. The cap can then be fastened 908 to thebase/flange assembly. For example, if the cap includes articulatinglevers as described herein, the cap can be fastened 908 using theprocess as illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5C.

Process 900 can further include rotating 910 the fluid sensor assemblyinto a position where attaching the wires to the connectors on the capis easiest or most convenient. The external wires can be attached 912 tothe cap and process 900 is complete.

It should be noted that the process 900 as shown in FIG. 9 is providedby way of example only. In actual implementation, several of the processsteps can be combined and/or performed in an alternate order. Similarly,additional process steps can be included. For example, in certainimplementations, process 900 can further include locking the base/flangeassembly into position following rotating 910 the assembly.

Dual-Sensor Assemblies

In some fuel filling environments such as a tank-to-tank fillingenvironment with less sophisticated pumping equipment common, forexample, in an airport where aviation fuel is pumped from a storage tankto tanker trucks, a two-probe fluid sensor assembly can be used. Thefirst sensor extends further into the tank and provides an initialsignal when the fuel hits a certain height. This signal indicates thatthe pump should begin to shut down the pumping operation. The secondsensor provides an emergency shut off signal to the pump similar to thesingle fluid sensor examples as described above.

In order to conserve space, it is useful to include a two-sensor fluidsensor assembly into the space where a single fluid sensor assembly waspreviously mounted. However, two-sensor fluid sensor assemblies aregenerally bigger than single fluid sensor assemblies, thereby requiringfluid tank or storage container modification when being retrofit.

A two-sensor fluid probe assembly is described herein that provides fora smaller footprint when installed by using a similar sensor holder asthose described above in regard to the single fluid sensor assemblies.However, the two-sensor fluid sensor assembly as described herein alsoprovides for a semi- or fully-toolless installation that improvesefficiency and ease of installation.

For example, a two-sensor fluid sensor assembly as described herein caninclude a probe holder configured to receive and secure two fluid sensorprobes, a base configured to receive and secure the holder upon rotationof the holder into the base, and a spring positioned between the holderand the base, the spring positioned to exert a repelling force betweenthe holder and the base to secure the holder to the base.

FIG. 10 illustrates a sample dual-sensor fluid sensor assembly 1000 asdescribed herein. The assembly 1000 can include a cap 1002, a probeholder 1004, and a base 1006. As shown in FIG. 10, the cap 1002 caninclude two screws or other similar removable fasteners for removableaffixing the cap to the base 1006. The base 1006 can be configured tomount to a flange such as flange 306 as described above, therebyrequiring the same amount of space as the single fluid sensor assembliesas described above. For example, the base 1006 can be configured tothread into a flange to physically attach the base to the flange. Onceattached to the flange, the probe holder can be inserted into the base1006 and the cap can be affixed as described below.

As shown in FIG. 10, the assembly 1000 includes two fuel sensor probes1008A and 1008B. In certain implementations, the two probes 1008A and1008B are set to measure fuel levels at different heights. To continuethe above example, probe 1008A can be set to extend further into a fuelstorage container and provide an initial signal to begin shutting downthe pump. Probe 1008B can be set to sit higher in the fuel storagecontainer and to provide the emergency shut off signal.

In certain implementations, the difference in height between the twoprobes 1008A and 1008B can be about 1.5 inches. However, this heightdifference can be adjust based upon various factors such as the fillrate of the pump, the size of the fuel storage container, and therecommended fill height of the fuel storage container. In some examples,probes 1008A and 1008B can be different sizes. For example, probe 1008Acan be a twelve-inch probe and probe 1008B can be a 7-inch probe.

As further shown in FIG. 10, the holder 1004 of assembly 1000 caninclude a probe mounting bracket 1010 configured to hold both of probes1008A and 1008B in position. The mounting bracket 1010 can include aprobe lock 1012 configured to apply pressure to the mounting bracket tohold the probes 1008A and 1008B in place during operation. In someexamples, the probe lock 1012 can be a toolless fastener such as a thumbscrew or a butterfly/wing nut. In other examples, the probe lock can bea tooled fastener such as a hex nut, a bolt, or a screw that requires adriver for tightening. In certain implementations, the probe lock 1012can be configured to secure both probes 1008A and 1008B simultaneous. Inother examples, the probe lock 1012 can include two locking membersconfigured to individually hold each of the probes 1008A and 1008,allowing for one probe to be securely tightened while the second probecan be loosened for adjustment.

Referring again to FIG. 10, the holder 1004 can also include a number ofrotational locking members 1014. As shown in FIG. 10, each of therotational locking members 1014 can be configured to extend from theholder 1004. The rotational locking members 1014 can be positioned andconfigured to lock the holder 1004 into the base 1006. For example, asshown in FIG. 10, the base 1006 can include a number of receivingdetents 1016. Upon insertion of the holder 1004 into the base 1006, theholder can be rotated such that the rotational locking members 1014engage the receiving detents 1016, thereby locking the holder into thebase. Such an operation provides for a toolless insertion of the holderinto the base.

As further shown in FIG. 10, each of probes 1008A and 1008B includewires 1018. Upon insertion of the holder 1004 into the base 1006, thewires 1018 can be directed through one or more wire connectors 1020 forexterior connection.

FIG. 11 provides an additional view of the holder 1004 and the probes1008A and 1008B. As shown in FIG. 11, the holder can also include a waveor disk spring 1022. In certain implementations, the disk spring can bemanufactured from a metal such as stainless steel or carbon steel. Uponinsertion of the holder 1004 into the base 1006, the disk spring ispositioned and configured to push back against the holder, therebycreating a repelling force between the holder and the base. Thisrepelling force acts to secure the rotational locking members 1014 intothe receiving detents 1016. To remove the holder 1004 from the base1006, an opposite force to the repelling force can be applied to theholder to offset the disk spring 1022 and release the rotational lockingmembers from the receiving detents 1016, thereby allowing for rotationand removal of the holder from the base. In some implementations, thedisk spring 1022 can be configured to exert about 20 pounds of pressureas the repelling force as described herein. In some examples, the diskspring 1022 can be configured to exert about 25-50 pounds of pressure.In other examples, the disk spring can be configured to exert about10-30 pounds of pressure.

The specific design of the components of assembly 1000 as shown in FIGS.10 and 11 provides for improved installation and servicing of adual-sensor fluid sensor assembly (or, for example, any configuration ofsensor assembly fitting through the sensor holder as described herein,for example, a one-sensor or a three-sensor assembly) as describedherein. For example, upon removal of the cap 1002 (for example, byloosening the two screws shown on opposites sides of cap 1002 in FIG.10), a technician can remove the holder 1004 on the fluid tank withouttools by simply depressing the holder, thereby opposing the repellingforce exerted by the disk spring 1022 and rotating the holder. Afterrotation, the technician can remove the holder 1004 from the base 1006and return to ground level for inspection of the probes 1008A and 1008B.If necessary, replacement of one or both of the probes 1008A and 1008Bis simplified to merely loosening the probe lock 1012 and removing oneor both of the probes from the mounting bracket 1010. In certainimplementations, if the probe lock 1012 is a toolless fastener such as athumbscrew, the technician does not need any tools to remove the holder1004 from the base 1006 and replace one or both of probes 1008A and1008B.

It should be noted that cap 1002 as shown in FIG. 10 is provided withscrews for attaching to base 1006 by way of example only. In certainimplementations, a modified version of cap 302 including thearticulating levers as described above can be used with the dual-sensorfluid sensor assembly 1000.

As described herein, the assembly 1000 can be configured to mount on anexternal fuel container such as a fuel tanker trailer and, as such, canbe designed to be exposed to harsh conditions such as rain, snow, wind,sun, heat, and other types of weather. In addition, the components ofthe assembly 1000 can be designed to withstand potential corrosioncaused by the fluid in the container as well as any fumes or vapors thatthe fluid gives off. For example, if the fluid is gasoline, thecomponents of the fluid sensor assembly 1000 can be manufactured frommaterials that can withstand exposure to the fluid. In certainimplementations, the holder 1004 and the base 1006, and the componentscontained therein except as stated otherwise above, can be manufacturedfrom a non-corrosive metal such as stainless-steel or another similarmetal. The cap 1002 can be manufactured from a lighter material such asa high-density polyethylene or another similar plastic.

FIG. 12 illustrates a sample process 1200 for mounting and assembling adual-sensor fluid sensor assembly (e.g., assembly 1000) as describedabove. The process 1200 can include determining 1202 a depth for each ofthe probes being inserted into the assembly. For example, as notedabove, determining the probe depth can be based upon various factorssuch as pump fill rate, fuel storage tank size, and recommended fuelheight in the tank. Based upon this information, a depth for each of thefuel probes can be determined 1202. For example, probe one can beinserted to a depth of 7.5 inches and probe two can be inserted to adepth of 6.0 inches.

Process 1200 can further include inserting 1204 probe 1 into themounting bracket, inserting 1206 probe two into the mounting bracket,and securing 1208 both of the probes into the probe holder. For example,securing 1208 the probes can include tightening the probe lock on themounting bracket.

Once the probes are secured 1208 into the probe holder, the holder canbe secured 1210 to the base. As noted above, to secure 1210 the holderto the base, the holder can be inserted into the base and pushed downinto the base, thereby opposing any pressure exerted on the holder bythe disk spring (e.g., disk spring 1022) now positioned between theholder and base. The holder can be rotated until the rotational lockingmembers (e.g., rotational locking members 1014) engage the receivingdetents (e.g., receiving detents 1016). Upon release of the holder, thedisk spring will exert a repelling force on the base and the holder,thereby locking the rotational locking members into the receivingdetents.

Process 1200 can further include wiring 1212 the individual probes toconnectors in the base (e.g., connectors 1020) or directly to a wiringharness or other similar external wires. Process 1200 further includesfastening 1214 the cap to the base, thereby completing process 1200.

It should be noted that process 1200 as shown in FIG. 12 is provided byway of example only. In actual implementation, several of the processsteps can be combined and/or performed in an alternate order. Similarly,additional process steps can be included. For example, in certainimplementations, process 1200 can further include mounting a base/flangeassembly onto the fuel storage container. In other examples, the process1200 can include a removal of the holder from the base by, as notedabove, depressing the holder into the base to offset the repelling forceand rotating the holder to remove form the base.

As noted above, FIG. 1 illustrates an example cable loom 100 includingovermolded junctions to protect connecting wires. However, when using adual sensor assembly as described in FIGS. 10-12, it may not be feasibleor convenient to use pre-manufactured cables as is shown in FIG. 1.Rather, each fluid sensor can be wired individually to a central controlunit, the wires being run in a protective sheathing such as a conduit ora flexible sheathing to provide protection from the elements as well asthe any spilled fluid being stored in the container that the dual-sensorfluid sensor assembly is mounted to.

For example, FIG. 13 illustrates a sample wiring system 1300 thatincludes one example of wiring for a dual sensor fluid sensor assemblyas described herein. As shown in FIG. 13, the system 1300 can include acontrol unit 1302 that can be configured to provide control instructionsto a pump 1315. The pump can be configured to pump a fluid such asgasoline or another similar fluid into storage container 1320 via pipe1318. As further shown in FIG. 13, the storage container 1320 caninclude a dual-sensor fluid sensor assembly 1310 as described herein.

The control unit 1302 can include one or more terminal blocks 1304 thatare positioned and configured to receive one or more wires 1306. Asshown in FIG. 13, the wires 1306 include multiple wires connected tovarious portions of the terminal block 1304. The terminal block 1304 canbe configured to provide power, ground, control signals, and othersimilar electrical signals from the control unit 1302 to the wires 1306.

As further shown in FIG. 13, the wires 1306 are run through a protectivesheathing 1308 to the dual-sensor fluid sensor assembly 1310. A portion1306 a of the wires 1306 are directed to and physically connected to afirst sensor 1312 a. For example, a power wire, a ground wire, and oneor more control wires can be operably connected to the first sensor 1312a, thereby operably coupling the first sensor with the control unit1302. Similarly, a second portion 1306 b of the wires 1306 are directedto and physically connected to a second sensor 1312 b. For example, apower wire, ground wire, and one or more control wires can be operablyconnected to the second sensor 1312 b, thereby operably coupling thesecond sensor with the control unit 1302.

For example, wires 1306 a can be directed through a first wire connector(e.g., one of wire connectors 1020 as described above) on thedual-sensor fluid sensor assembly 1310 and operably connected to wiresattached to the first sensor 1312 a (e.g., one of wires 1018 asdescribed above). Similarly, wires 1306 b can be directed through asecond wire connector on the dual-sensor fluid sensor assembly 1310 andoperably connected to wires attached to the second sensor 1312 b. Onceconnected, sensors 1312 a and 1312 b can receive power from andcommunicate fluid level information with the control unit 1302. Basedupon information from the sensors 1312 a and 1312 b, the control unitcan provide updated control instructions to the pump 1315.

It should be noted that the wiring system 1300 as shown in FIG. 13 isprovided by way of example only, and certain aspects of the diagram areincluded for illustrative purposes only. For example, wires 1306 isshown as having six wires by way of example only. In actualimplementation, the number of wires included in wires 1306 can varybased upon the number of sensors being connected to the control unit1302 as well as the individual wiring requirements of each of thesensors. Similarly, in certain implementations, the sensors 1312 a and1312 b could share a common wire of wires 1306. For example, each ofsensors 1312 a and 1312 b could have a common ground or power wire.

It should also be noted that in an actual installation, the sheathing1308 would be arranged such that no portion of the wires 1306 areexposed. However, a portion of the wires 1036 are shown as exposed inFIG. 13 by way of example only.

The examples of the methods and apparatuses discussed herein are notlimited in application to the details of construction and thearrangement of components set forth in the following description orillustrated in the accompanying drawings. The methods and apparatusesare capable of implementation in other examples and of being practicedor of being carried out in various ways. Examples of specificimplementations are provided herein for illustrative purposes only andare not intended to be limiting. In particular, acts, elements andfeatures discussed in connection with any one or more examples are notintended to be excluded from a similar role in any other examples.

Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescription and should not be regarded as limiting. Any references toexamples or elements or acts of the systems and methods herein referredto in the singular may also embrace examples including a plurality ofthese elements, and any references in plural to any example or elementor act herein may also embrace examples including only a single element.References in the singular or plural form are not intended to limit thepresently disclosed systems or methods, their components, acts, orelements. The use herein of “including,” “comprising,” “having,”“containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof is meant to encompassthe items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well asadditional items. References to “or” may be construed as inclusive sothat any terms described using “or” may indicate any of a single, morethan one, and all of the described terms.

Having thus described several aspects of at least one example of thisdisclosure, it is to be appreciated various alterations, modifications,and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Suchalterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part ofthis disclosure and are intended to be within the scope of thedisclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are byway of example only.

What is claimed is:
 1. A fluid sensor assembly comprising: a base configured to receive a fluid sensor, the base forming a plurality of receiving apertures positioned about a perimeter of the base; and a cap configured to fit on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between the cap and the base, the cap comprising a plurality of articulating levers, each articulating lever of the plurality of articulating levers being configured to rotate about a central axis and comprising a latching feature configured to be inserted into a receiving aperture of the plurality of receiving apertures when the cap is fitted on the base and to lock the cap to the base upon rotation of the articulating levers.
 2. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the articulating levers further comprises: a pivot point; a bottom portion configured to remain parallel to the central axis; and a top portion configured to pivot about the pivot point to a position perpendicular to the central axis.
 3. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 2, wherein the top portion comprises a contoured shape configured to mimic at least a portion of a shape of the cap.
 4. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the cap further comprises one or more toolless wire connectors configured to provide an electrical connection to the fluid sensor.
 5. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of receiving apertures comprises a slot.
 6. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 5, wherein each of the latching features comprises a pin extending from opposites sides of the articulating lever, the pin sized to fit into the slot when the cap is fitted to the base and to lock into the slot upon rotation of the articulating levers.
 7. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 1, further comprising a flange configured to be mounted to a fluid container.
 8. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 7, wherein the base is configured to mount to the flange.
 9. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the fluid sensor is a fluid overfill sensor.
 10. A cap for covering a fluid sensor assembly, the cap comprising: a cap body configured to fit against a sensor assembly base and form a fluid-tight seal between the cap and the sensor assembly base; and a plurality of articulating levers, each articulating lever of the plurality of articulating levers being configured to rotate about a central axis and comprising a latching feature configured to be inserted into one of a plurality of receiving apertures on the sensor assembly base when the cap is fitted on the sensor assembly base and to lock the cap to the sensor assembly base upon rotation of the articulating levers.
 11. The cap of claim 10, wherein each of the articulating levers further comprises: a pivot point; a bottom portion configured to remain parallel to the central axis; and a top portion configured to pivot about the pivot point to a position perpendicular to the central axis.
 12. The cap of claim 11, wherein the top portion comprises a contoured shape configured to mimic at least a portion of a shape of the cap.
 13. The cap of claim 10, wherein the cap further comprises one or more toolless wire connectors configured to provide an electrical connection to a fluid sensor housed within the fluid sensor assembly.
 14. The cap of claim 10, wherein each of the latching features comprises a pin extending from opposites sides of the articulating lever, the pin sized to fit into a receiving aperture when the cap is fitted to the sensor assembly base and to lock into the receiving aperture upon rotation of the articulating levers.
 15. A fluid sensor assembly for measuring a fluid level in a fluid storage container, the fluid sensor assembly comprising: a flange configured to mount to the fluid storage container; a fluid overfill sensor; a base configured to mount to the flange and receive the fluid overfill sensor, the base forming a plurality of receiving apertures positioned about a perimeter of the base; and a cap configured to fit on the base and form a fluid-tight seal between the cap and the base, the cap comprising a plurality of articulating levers, each articulating lever of the plurality of articulating levers being configured to rotate about a central axis and comprising a latching feature configured to be inserted into a receiving aperture of the plurality of receiving apertures when the cap is fitted on the base and to lock the cap to the base upon rotation of the articulating levers.
 16. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 15, wherein each of the articulating levers further comprises: a pivot point; a bottom portion configured to remain parallel to the central axis; and a top portion configured to pivot about the pivot point to a position perpendicular to the central axis.
 17. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 16, wherein the top portion comprises a contoured shape configured to mimic at least a portion of a shape of the cap.
 18. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 15, wherein the cap further comprises one or more toolless wire connectors configured to provide an electrical connection to the fluid overfill sensor.
 19. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 15, wherein each of the plurality of receiving apertures comprises a slot.
 20. The fluid sensor assembly of claim 19, wherein each of the latching features comprises a pin extending from opposites sides of the articulating lever, the pin sized to fit into the slot when the cap is fitted to the base and to lock into the slot upon rotation of the articulating levers. 